[The Athletic] With Westbrook aboard, sources said Davis has emerged as the expected starting center, clearing the way for a likely starting five of him, Westbrook, Ellington, Ariza and James, according to sources.

Source: https://theathletic.com/2848702/2021/09/27/superstar-shopping-lebron-russell-westbrook-and-the-lakers-summer-of-recruiting/?source=user_shared_article

“There’s no way Gasol wants to be back nor do (the Lakers) want him back,” one source said after the season ended.

Instead, the Lakers will move forward with Jordan and Howard in the middle, although L.A. is unlikely to start either at center.

Since Davis arrived from New Orleans two years ago, the Lakers’ best lineups have featured him at center. With Westbrook aboard, sources said Davis has emerged as the expected starting center, clearing the way for a likely starting five of him, Westbrook, Ellington, Ariza and James, according to sources. Third-year guard Talen Horton-Tucker, a rising, young talent for the Lakers, is also expected to compete in camp for a possible starting role.

Ellington provides shooting on the perimeter after making 42.2 percent of his 3-pointers in six attempts a game last season. Ariza gives the Lakers an experienced 3-and-D player on the wing, able to guard multiple positions and fit in any lineup.